Small Southwestern Birds of Prey: Cracking the Crossword Clue
This crossword clue, "small southwestern birds of prey," points to a specific group of raptors found in the southwestern United States. While several species could technically fit, the most likely answer, given crossword puzzle constraints, is likely KESTREL.
Here's why:
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Size: Kestrels are relatively small birds of prey compared to eagles, hawks, or falcons of similar regions. This fits the "small" descriptor perfectly.
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Location: American Kestrels ( Falco sparverius ) have a wide range, including the southwestern United States. This fulfills the "southwestern" requirement.
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Predatory Nature: Kestrels are undeniably birds of prey, making them a suitable fit for the final part of the clue.
Other Possibilities (Less Likely):
While less likely due to word length or common crossword usage, other small southwestern birds of prey include:
- Sparrowhawks: These are slightly larger than kestrels and might be considered, depending on the specific species and the crossword's word length requirements.
Why Kestrel is the Best Fit:
The word "kestrel" is a relatively common answer in crossword puzzles due to its length and relevance to the clue. Its concise nature makes it a prime candidate for solvers looking to complete their puzzle efficiently.
Therefore, while other small southwestern birds of prey exist, kestrel emerges as the most probable and suitable answer for this crossword clue. The clue itself is designed to test knowledge of regional birdlife and concise vocabulary.